Winter Putting Fix

Most of you are reading this post from cities that have very cold temps and lots of snow. In Dallas it's no different. We don't have any snow, although it did snow three times in December. We do have some very cold temps.
So that means not much golf outside for the next few days. If you do get the urge, getting some practice in on your putting certainly would help your golf fix.
When I spend time with a student on the putting green, invariably the student is more worried about their line then the distance control. I focus more on the latter. To me, the distance control of any putt is the first priority. The distance you hit your putt determines how much break you play. So the distance control is paramount to determine the proper break. Additionally, I see more 3 putts happen with putts that are left either too short or long. Seldom is a 3 putt from missing the first putt too far to the left or right.
Don't get me wrong, the line is definitely important but if you put a little more focus on hitting the putt the proper distance I really believe you'll achieve a few things.

1. Minimize your 3 putts.
2. Less stress will be put on making your second putt.
3. More first putts, from longer distances will be made as a result of improved distance control.

So a quick drill would be to just practice putting to a wall. From any distance, attempt to leave the ball just short of hitting the wall. This drill puts emphasis on controlling your distance and minimizes the worry of a specific line. Give it a try.